Firearms Training Courses: A Must For Anyone Who Owns A Firearm

By Bud Selig

There has been one story that haunts me each fall since 1990.

I still remember it as a 12-year-old boy, sitting in an auditorium listening to some overweight man with a moustache lecturing us in a hunter's safety course. He then turned on a video describing a horrible event involving a father and son on a hunting trip.

The two were hunting ducks. They were walking by a river in the trees, the son following the father, when a duck flew in the air. The father aimed and followed the duck with his site as it circled around.

In his concentration, the father didn't realize he turned around toward his son and pointed the barrel directly in front of his child's face. The father's eyes were set on the duck as he pulled the trigger.

But it wasn't the duck that fell.

The mood was somber in that auditorium after everyone realized the father shot and killed his own son on a simple hunting trip. Every fall, when the leaves turn from green to orange and gold, and hunting season starts, I think of that story and a simple firearms training course could have stopped that from happening.

Weapons are dangerous. No matter what experience you may have, accidents can easily occur, especially when it is involving concealed weapons. If you own guns, or want to own one, there should be no argument about whether or not you should take a concealed carry training (CCW training) or some type of firearms course. There are no excuses for gun accidents. Once someone is shot, it's hard to take that moment back. Safety should be the ultimate goal for anyone that carries a weapon.

Yes, guns are very dangerous, but they don't have to be - not with the right firearms training. The first part of any firearms training is, obviously, safety with each weapon. To be safe, the user must know each part of the weapon. The user is also taught different laws and techniques (like never point a weapon at someone, even if it's not loaded) that will ensure safety no matter what situation you are in.

Firearms training usually will discuss safety rules, malfunctions, components of the gun, the basics of ammunition, legal issues, cleaning, storing weapons, safety on a gun range, marksmanship, and other specifics for different types of weapons. CCW training courses will teach essential skills so you can safely use concealed carry weapons. CCW courses are usually designed for beginners and professionals and only take a total of 12 hours to complete.

Concealed carry training classes usually will take place in both the classroom and a firing range, and will teach things like safety measures, the functions of handgun components, ammunition, malfunctions, the grip and stance, sight and trigger management, cleaning and safe storage and other legal aspects and different types of concealment options. Students will be able to use what they learned on the range with myriad firearms like the 45ACP semi-auto pistol, the 38SPL/357 Magnum revolver and a 9MM semi-auto pistol. CCW training students will be taught how to shoot in low light conditions, night sights, tactical flashlights and shooting with a laser site.

About the Author:

Bud Selig is an author who specializes in concealed carry training ohio

The Perfect Blend of Martial Art

By Al Case

In analyzing the martial arts I was struck by one simple fact: the randomness of it all. When I developed the science of Matrixing I found that randomness increased with the age of an art. The longer an art had been around, the more random it appeared.

The point here is that when an art is 'invented,' it is usually developed along certain logical lines. As times pass, and the art is no longer used in combat, these lines tend to blur. Logic begins to disappear.

Karate, a very fine example of this, is at least used in tournaments, and so retains, in some manner, a degree of workability. It is too bad that this workability is not in evidence in the forms. Students of Karate are usually studying two arts, one of fomr, and one of freestyle.

Interestingly, form has the most benefit in an art. Form develops patience and calm and strong bodies, without the danger of getting beaten up. Unfortunately, form doesn't always look like combat.

Combat, on the other hand, endangers the student when taken to an extreme. Also, the 'joy of combat' excites the student, and causes a reduction in discipline and calm. Thus, while combat is fun, form is probably more important to learn.

The ideal, of course, would be a perfect blend of a form which retains the elements of real combat, and yet does not cause the student to lapse into excitability which obscures true learning. This, when one inspects the current martial arts forms , is almost an impossibility. It is not even possible when one dedicates oneself to a system concerned mostly with application.

A system that specializes in application only is a system that encourages the memorizing of strings of data, and the student never gets the whole picture of the martial arts. This is going to be a system which takes too long to learn. A system based on application solely is going to be a system based on memorizing tricks.

The above having been noted, one reaches the conclusion that the ideal system would have a blend of form and freestyle. Furthermore, the system must be tied together by a step by step, logical arrangement of application. Thus, a three sided balance of the martial arts is achieved by the intelligent arrangement of form, freestyle and application.

About the Author:

Al Case has been researching martial arts for over 40 years. Inspect his logic at Monster Martial Arts. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

The Secret of the Fifth Element!

By Al Case

Beneath Japanese philosophy and military strategy are five key elements. These five elements are earth, water, fire, air and void, and they are concepts that can destroy or generate each other. Many people believe that understanding these five basic elements is key to understanding war on a personal, or on a grand, level.

The first thing to be understood is the arrangement of the five elements. In proper arrangement, it is believed, can be found their true value. Unfortunately, as there are different arrangements, and arguments concerning those arrangements, it can be said that nobody has truly discovered the true value of the elements.

In researching the elements, and in applying Matrix theory, this writer believes he has found the true value of the five elements. This is a matter not of de-mystifying mysticism, but rather of defining the value of the elements from the point of view of their source. In accomplishing this one finds that physics, not mysticism, is at the core of the matter.

The first element to be considered, when arranging the elements in their proper order, is air. Air is life, air is the act of breathing itself. Ultimately, air permeates our very person and it gives rise to the birth of further elements.

The second element to be considered in this sequence is fire. Air enhances and grows fire, and if one breaths 'to the Tan Tien,' one is cultivating the spirit of fire that is necessary to the grand warrior. Combat uses the element of fire most, and thus fire must be enhanced and groomed and aimed, all at the same time.

The third element in the correct arrangement of elements is earth. A warrior breathes and creates fire, and he must control that fire so that it creeps down the legs and into the very earth he stands upon. A warrior who can tenaciously hold to his position, no matter how vicious the attack, is indeed a superior warrior.

Water is the fourth element. When a warrior finds himself under attack, even by forces greatly superior, he learns the proper methods of giving way, thus he learns to preserve himself, and then wash back over the attacker. Understanding water indicates the start of a basic transition from youth to wisdom.

The fifth element is the void, and it has the appearance of being quite mystical and unexplainable. In the absence of elements, however, spirit can grow, and since spirit is awareness, the mystery is solved. Ultimately, awareness rules the other elements, and it is awareness that determines the eventual outcome of conflict, be it on a grand, or a personal, level.

About the Author:

Al Case has been practicing the martial arts for 40 years. You can see The True Art at Monster Martial Arts. This and other unique content '' articles are available with free reprint rights.

The Deadliest Weapon in the Martial Arts!

By Al Case

The deadliest weapon in all the martial arts world is...the towel. This weapon is so deadly it should be outlawed. In fact, anybody caught with a towel in hand should be arrested and thrown into the darkest prison!

A towel, when properly utilized, can travel at unbelievable speeds. A mere flick of the wrist and the towels tip is going to exceed one hundred miles per hour! Even a bit of cloth, moving at such a speed, can create mighty welts and even split the skin.

The deadly towel can be made even deadlier by doing one simple thing. If one dips the tip of the towel into water, the towel can become even more cutting and cause even more pain. A tip dipped in water gains weight, and the integrity of the strike is increased multiple times!

The towel is also one weapon that can be easily hidden. Wrapped around the hips, it is hidden in plain sight! I mean, who in the world is going to scared of a naked body wrapped in towel?

The fact is, when wearing a towel is one of the time that you are most likely to be attacked. Muggers are going to feel pretty comfortable about attacking you when you have no visible sign of defense. Not having any means of defending yourself could be considered akin to asking for trouble!

If you have just been for a swim, or popped out of the shower, that is the time when you are most unarmed, and nobody is going to be scared of you. Being unarmed is the time when muggers are going to most eager to seek you out. That is the time when the big, bad mugger is going to want to attack you!

If you are wearing nothing a towel, and you are attacked, you dont need to look around for some means to defend yourself. All you have to give a severe jolt to the attacker is drop your towel! Then you start dancing around, snapping and flicking with great abandon, and your attacker will shortly be running, screaming, down the street!

What is funny is that you think I have just been joking around. Miyamoto Musashi, possible the greatest swordsman who ever lived, was once trapped in a bath house by a dozen armed thugs. All he had was a towel and his, huge talent, and he routed those muggers down the street and out of town!

About the Author:

Al Case has over more than four decades plus years practice in the martial arts. Order his free ebook is at Monster Martial Arts. Grab a totally unique version of this article from the Uber Article Directory

ADT Household Security Systems

By Richard May

A video security system will be used both at home as well as at commercial buildings in order to monitor the movement of people within those places. These act as both deterants and also evidence as they can record images that can be played back if anything ever is broken into.

A standard ADT household security system will normally be composed of certain pieces of equipment. The monitor will be utilized to show images that have been recorded by the security cameras connected to it either using wires or wirelessly.

Note that a security monitor will have a much better screen resolution than a usual home television. Cameras will need to be placed at various locations around the home so that any possible entrance points or weak spots can be monitored for intruders.

The video cameras can also be linked to the security monitors using either a normal wire or alternatively wirelessly. As with most things, there are advantages and disadvantages of both. You need to make sure that you install the cameras in such a way that they are not blocked by normal household items. Also bear in mind that you don't want the cameras to get in the way of future pieces of furnitures being added to the house.

It may not be needed in most homes, but think about whether you will need a system that uses hard wires or a wireless network. If you decide to use a wireless network then you will pay a little more money but it will be a lot more convenient to install the cameras around the house. Obviously there are no problems with fitting wires around the current furniture.

It can be hard to decide which factors are important when choosing a home security camera. ADT security have technical support departments who can advise you on this and you need to get as much advice as you can. After all the camera is one of the most important parts of the entire security system.

Prior to going out and buying a new ADT camera system, take some time to take a look at your home to see how many cameras you may need. Look at potential places where a burglar may enter the house and count how many cameras you may need. Will you need the cameras to record sound as well? If you are not sure then ask an ADT advisor.

A main part of the entire security system in the coaxial cables that will transmit all of the video images from the cameras to the monitors. A switcher is used to connect together two or more video cameras to a central monitor. But you can get more advanced switchers which allow you to connect in alarms. The reason for doing this is that the corresponding camera is locked whenever the alarm is triggered.

About the Author:

Before you go to purchase an ADT home security system make sure you follow the above steps so that you make the right decision. Also look at the price of ADT home security system parts.

Dance Teaches Love of Music

By Sarah Wilkiamson

Understanding music is difficult for young dancers when they first start learning. Interpreting music into movement is something that comes naturally for some people, but for those who need a little more time to develop their skills, it will come.

Eurhythmics teaches rhythm in its most basic of forms. Dancers are taught to walk and hit sticks together in specific rhythms like the waltz, march, polka and more. Eurhythmics makes it easier for students to recognize different types of music.

Melody in music will set the mood of the piece. An important part of dance is mime, or actions telling a story or mood without words. The melody of the music will aid in telling the story. The students will learn to recognize and understand the music by the melody. This will help them to appreciate music as certain pieces become familiar to them.

Young students really need to get to know the many different types of music that are used. Classical music is mostly associated with ballet but other music can be used. Understanding music properly is easier said than done for many people, but with the help of a suitably qualified teacher, it will eventually come.

Interpreting music is a fun thing for a child and will let them increase their creativity. This will help them to like the music even more as they will associate it with the fun dances they did at school.

Much of the music used in dance is classical music. Many children do not get introduced to this unique form of music and dance is a nice way to learn about it. This is a fun way to learn about music through dance and can create a lasting love of music.

In order to take advantage of this part of dance, you will need to choose a good school for your child. The school should take into consideration the needs of students and not be in it just for the money. This means that the curriculum for different ages and levels of dancing will be well worked out and suitable for your child's age group.

Teachers should have a good rapport with their students and be creative. They should be experienced and be able to understand young students. In this way they will understand how small children can learn and bring out the best in your child. Your child will not get bored and really enjoy their dance lessons. When they love their dance lessons they will automatically enjoy the music that they dance to. This will bring out a life long love of music and the arts. Your child's dance lessons will become an enriching experience and make them a more interesting person to be with.

About the Author:

If you are interested in more information about dance Annandale please take time to visit this site about Fairfax ballet.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack and How to Recognize Them

By Don Myatt

No one really knows when a heart attack will strike, as you don?t even get a warning really. You may be as fit as a fiddle, but you can still have symptoms of a heart attack and unfortunately being fit does not mean you won?t have one. There are different types and different degrees of heart attack and then there is angina pectoris. Angina has the symptoms of a heart attack, but is different. Angina Pectoris actually means constriction of the chest.

Heart attacks are caused by an obstruction of flow to the muscle of the heart. Angina is the blockage of the arteries, which does block the flow of blood, but is not actually affecting the muscle of the heart. Coronary thrombosis, is probably the most common of causes for heart attacks, this is a clot getting stuck, in the coronary artery.

The effects and the symptoms of a heart attack are all to do with the muscle or the arteries. People who?s heart muscle is weak, will probably have more lasting damage, than some one who has a clot or blocked artery. Both types are life changing, and things like diet, smoking, drinking and exercise will have to be taken into consideration after a heart attack (or before if you want to take preventative methods). People have to stick with it as well if they don?t want heart disease symptoms a second time.

As not much, if any, warning is given when having a heart attack it is good to know what to look for. After all, people who are having a heart attack may not even know themselves what it is. So here are some symptoms to look for, a persistent pain in the chest, which can go to the jaw and arms, pale skin with bluing lips and clammy skin.

The pulse of a heart attack victim, can be rapid, weak or just irregular. They may feel faint and sweat a lot, feel dizzy and faint and gasp for air. Another one of the symptoms of a heart attack that is not commonly known is that people can have a sudden feeling of impending doom, as if they are going to die and of course they might well do (although most people do actually survive heart attacks).

When someone does get a feeling of impending doom the only thing to do, is to talk to them in a calm and comforting manner. Tell them what you know about heart attacks and reassure them. Now we?ll look at other things to do, if anyone is having an attack.

The first thing to do should be the most obvious, but not everybody does it - call an ambulance, as the person having the attack, is going to need it. After that, put them in a comfortable position, this is best as a half seated position, on the floor with something against their back and supporting the shoulders. Place something under the knees, to raise them slightly and bring the hands together on the abdomen. Take the persons vital signs, level of response, check breath and pulse. The vitals should be taken at regular intervals, until the ambulance arrives.

If someone has medication on them, for their condition, let them take it or help them take it if need be. Always talk to the victim and give them reassurance, this is just as important as all the other vital stuff. So now you know how to look after a heart attack victim, until the ambulance arrives, you can maybe even save someones life.

About the Author:

If you are searching for health related tips and advice, you are welcome to pay us a visit on our health in general related website where you can browse at your leisure.

Review: Sanyo SR1000KMassage Chair Recliner

By James Knolan

This review covers the entry level massage chair made by Sanyo, which is model HEC-SR1000K. The SR 1000K massage chair recliner has some of the same features as some of Sanyo's higher end models. Our product review makes an evaluation in 5 separate categories and up to 20 points are awarded in each category. The total points are added up to give an overall rating for the massage chair. Here is our review of the Sanyo SR1000K massage chair recliner.

Warranty Coverage & Customer Service: We start with the warranty coverage because this is your long term protection. Massage chairs are complex machines and obtaining sufficient warranty coverage is always advised. Sanyo covers the SR-1000K recliner with the following warranty: You get 3 years coverage for the roller mechanism, 1 year labor coverage, 1 year parts coverage and 1 year in home service coverage. This is a great warranty for an entry level massage chair. Sanyo also has moved to a national call center which has also improved customer service. We rate the warranty coverage and customer service a 19.

Comfort & Ergonomics: Quite simply, a massage chair needs to be comfortable to sit in. We have seen some chairs that could not be used other than when the massage is running. Sanyo has figured this out and the SR1000 is a comfortable chair. The controller is well laid out and easy to figure out. The main power is to the side which takes a short training period to remember. The foot massager takes getting use to flipping out which is somewhat cumbersome. We give this chair a 17 for comfort and ergonomics.

Ease of Use: The advance of electronics is just simply amazing. However with this amazing advance come other challenges. All the new features that are in massage chairs must be learned and the user must figure out how to use them all. This is where the design becomes of paramount importance. The remote for the SR1000 seems to have more steps than needed to obtain the massage you want. We give this massage chair a 16 for this category.

Key Features: One of the interesting things with this model is that it has many technologies handed down from the higher level massage chairs in the Sanyo line. This is great for an entry level massage chair. Take for instance, the stiffness detector. The stiffness detector is found in Sanyo's high end model. This device is gripped with the hand. It monitors your pulse and sweat. It knows (somehow) where these changes are coming from and it actually targets those areas. Another electronic gadget integrated is the shape sensor. The shape sensor checks your body position in the chair and changes the massage to where you are. Interesting stuff, we give it an 18.

Massage Therapy: The SR-1000 comes with automatic and manual massage techniques. The automatic massages are named Recovery and Relax. Relax is a soothing type massage and Recovery is more vigorous for after more strenuous activity. The manual massages come with 3 massage techniques but also have two stretching capabilities. The stretching can be used in combination with the 3 massage techniques. The leg rest is capable to massage both the calves and the feet providing virtually a full body massage capability. The SR1000 earns a 17 for its massage therapy.

The Sanyo SR 1000K scored 87/100 points in our rating scale. The SR-1000 has some very unique electronic features for an entry level massage chair. It has one of the strongest warranty coverage for its price range. The foot massager can be hidden from view which adds to the aesthetics of the chair. The chair comes with a nice wood accents adding to its design flair. The massage therapy is effective. This is certainly a great value for its class. If you are looking for a massage chair recliner in this category the SR-1000K certainly merits your consideration.

About the Author:

Browse all the Sanyo Massage Chairs and learn about all their models and features. Find out more regarding the Sanyo SR1000 Massage Chair and its functions. We stock all the top manufacturers to help you find the right massage chair for your needs. View our massage chair reviews.

Secrets Stolen by Aikido Founder

By Al Case

The founder of Aikido, O Sensei, was once confronted by a student. O Sensei, I dont see the relationship of the triangle, square and circle. O Sensei nodded and smiled and said, There are some secrets that must be stolen.

This advice, coming from a spiritual leader, must have seemed terribly contradictory. What on earth, one can ask, did O Sensei really mean? What was his intent when he advised his student to steal.

The meaning of his words was that the student must learn to observe if he was going to truly learn. If he could observe other people in action, he might see the triangle, the square and the circle. If he could observe his own techniques, then he could understand these three mystical figures.

There are lessons in the martial arts that one must get from an instructor. Other lessons should be learned by oneself, with practice, without an instructor. This student of O Sensei had obviously reached a point where he need to look beyond the instruction of others, and begin to teach himself.

You can describe anything in the universe using these three symbols. Simply everything in the universe can be analyzed through these three geometrical figures. From tires to drawers to three legged stools, the architecture of the universe may be understood.

In the martial arts you will find the triangle describing the structure of the body. Every two bones that are joined together make up a triangle. Even the way you stand, foot, foot and Tan Tien (the one point, a place of energy below the navel) describes a triangle.

A circle is even easier, as it describes every possible motion of the hands. Whether you block or strike, kick or throw, you will find a circle. To move the hands without making a circle is actually quite difficult.

Now we must consider the square, and unfortunately, the square has no purpose in the martial arts. Maybe you can find a square on a piece of paper, or a door, but the martial arts obviously has no square. Or, perhaps you have arrived at a martial peak wherein you can steal a square.

About the Author:

Al Case has created a original method regarding Aikido. He can be found at Monster Martial Arts. Grab a totally unique version of this article from the Uber Article Directory

Corporate Party DJ: The Life of Any Company Party

By Matt Phipps

More and more companies realize the value of motivating their employees and reaching out to their customers or clients through hosting corporate parties. Especially for big companies, holding corporate functions is one of the keys to stay ahead of the competition.

To help companies with their corporate party needs, an array of DJ services offers packages to assure every corporate client that the event it is organizing will be a successful and memorable one. Included in the services offered is a corporate party DJ who is tasked to keep the audience entertained with a good choice of music.

Typically, the DJ is mainly responsible for playing a wide selection of songs not only to entertain party guests, but also to keep the party's mood lively and pleasant. The disc jockey assigned to perform at a corporate party should offer music that is preferred by most of the partygoers. The DJ may opt to personalize the entertainment aspect of the corporate event by employing a certain theme of music. Also, the DJ is in charge of playing the song requests of the people at the party.

These days, a lot of DJ service companies offer affordable prices to their corporate clients. Companies that need DJs for their corporate functions can take advantage of the reasonable prices offered by a lot of DJ service agencies. Hiring a DJ is in fact more cost-efficient than having a band perform at a corporate party.

A company only has to contact an entertainment service provider to be able to reserve a DJ for a corporate party. The company also has to inform the DJ service provider about the schedule of the event. Hours before the event, the entertainment provider sends a DJ with audio equipment to the location of the party.

Companies should make early reservations to give the DJ service provider adequate time to prepare the DJ and the necessary equipment for the corporate party. The DJ ensures that all the company's preferences will be met by the music to be provided in the event.

With their employee's well-being in mind, companies are aware of how important DJs are in any corporate events. DJs add pizzazz to events such as anniversaries and Christmas parties.

Apart from allowing their employees to have a good time outside their workplaces, companies host corporate parties to boost employee morale. Company parties also encourage healthy interaction among employees. These goals are best achieved with a good corporate party DJ who can make party guests strut their stuff on the dance floor with great music.

About the Author:

If you are looking for a DJ company for Private Parties, Weddings, Karaoke or Corporate Parties, then check out Choice Entertainment DJ Services in San Diego California.

CCTV Security Camera Guide

By Adam Togo

There are a few basics about CCTV security cameras when deciding to protect your home and family. CCTV cameras come in two forms. They are either CMOS or CCD cameras and are differentiated by the image sensor. CMOS based cameras are cheaper but produce a lower quality image than the CCD camera.

To find the best camera to fit your needs, the first step is to identify what purpose you intend the security camera to serve. For example, a camera to monitor general crowd movement is a much lower requirement than if you need a camera that can pinpoint a face in the crowd.

There is a difference in cameras designed for indoor versus outdoor use. There are additional durability standards that the camera would need to ensure it survives the harsh conditions, unlike an indoor security camera.

The overall size of your security system, including the number of cameras you will need, will determine your spending ceiling. If it was just one camera you might spend a little extra for extra features, for example higher resolution. But across a 20 camera system that little extra you spend per camera will definitely add up to some serious money. Your budget will directly impact your buying decision and needs to be sufficient for the right cameras to adequately serve your needs.

One determinant in what kind of camera you need is the lighting conditions of the area you will be monitoring. A high quality camera that was not designed for low light environment is useless if the lighting is insufficient. If you do require low light recording, there are several options available.

If you're going to need to monitor night scenes consider a black and white camera as they will deliver sharper images in low light. If you want 24 hour surveillance consider a day/night outdoor security camera.

There are also dedicated night vision cameras for true low light recording. The minimum amount of light required for the camera to record properly is measured by the LUX rating. A camera of lower LUX rating requires less light and a rating of 0 means the camera is designed for complete darkness.

A cameras resolution measures the sharpness of the image the camera will capture; higher resolution, higher quality image. Entry level cameras start at resolutions of 330 lines upward to 400 lines in higher quality cameras.

There are more advanced monitoring systems that allow for panning and zooming the camera but for many a standard recording device will suffice. Most people will use a digital video recorder, or DVR to record directly onto a harddisk.

About the Author:

It is natural to feel uncomfortable with the unknown, learn more about outdoor security cameras at our online security camera resource.

Programme Benefits Management

By Rob Llewellyn

Benefits management is often light on the ground in many programmes. Not very wise when the fundamental reason for beginning a programme is to realise benefits through change; whether it is to do things in a new way or to do things that will influence others to change.

The OGC's MSP Principles include strong emphasis on Benefits Management (BM) with the following keys stages covered off:

The Benefits Management Process

The Benefits Management Strategy

Identifying Benefits

The Quantification of Benefits

Benefit Profiles

The Benefit Modelling

Benefits Realisation Plan

A Process to Review Benefit Realisation

Responsibilities for BM

As benefits are the quantification of the change delivered by the programme, they should be used to help direct and make decisions throughout the course of the programme.

During the course of our Programme Management roles we will have determined the critical measures and indicators of success and made arrangements to ensure the programme remains appropriate and on track to deliver the intended outcomes and benefits.

Programme Managers should check that:

- The planned outcomes remain realistically achievable;

- All the planned outcomes are not changed in scope, relationship or value;

- The main stakeholders remain committed and confident that outcomes will be achieved when planned;

- The plan for achieving outcomes is being pro-actively managed;

- This plan is actively monitored against agreed key performance indicators or performance measures and any problems are promptly addressed and resolved.

Where key benefits have been properly identified, e.g. more effective service delivery or increased efficiency, these benefits should be properly managed in the same way. We should be able to define exactly what a benefit will deliver in a way that can be adequately measured, using realistic timescales, risks & costs. Every benefit should be linked to planned outcomes and every benefit should be assigned to an owner who is responsible and accountable for its eventual realisation.

In very large programmes of work, a business change manager will often coordinate the benefits realisation on behalf of the business areas owning those benefits.

About the Author:

Rob Llewellyn is an independent programme management consultant who has helped governments and leading organisations in Europe, the Middle East and Australia. Visit his web site to read more articles like the one above at www.llewellyn-group.com

The Greatest Samurai in Old Japan (defeating the gangsters)

By Al Case

Having defeated all the gangsters who had attacked him in the bath house, Sokaku Takeda pulled his clothes on and strode imperiously from the building. It was only a short walk to the inn. Once there, he demanded of the innkeeper a sword.

The innkeeper, a timid soul, was completely confused by the request. Somewhere, from some unseen hand, however, a sword appeared, and Sokaku hefted the blade. The arc of steel had a good feel to it.

Outside the inn a clamor could be heard. Striding down the street were the entire bunch of gangsters. They held swords and clubs and at their head was the cowardly fellow who had run from the bathhouse.

"We'll show you some gangster manners!" From the sides of the street terrified citizens stepped back and watched theunfolding spectacle. Gangsters walked the streets in pairs, and they formed small groups, but this was an outpouring of all the criminals!

The innkeeper came to Sokaku and begged for his inn. Sokaku looked at the innkeeper then stepped past him and out to the balcony. He stood forth in a challenging manner, sword in hand and the entire troupe of gangsters came to a halt and looked upwards.

A silence fell over the street, and in the silence crackled the raw energy of the fully enraged Sokaku. "Come if you will," growled Sokaku. "The streets will be filled with dead bodies before I am through!"

The silence lasted a moment more, then a woman, standing on a sidewalk with a baby, curled her baby into her arms and scuttled off. Then a pair of old men darted down an alley. Suddenly, the street became a race track for departing citizens.

Looking around in shock, the gangsters realized something: they were alone, and the man on the balcony was looking directly at them! At the rear of the pack, a lone gangster began backing up, then another gangster started to move off, and street began to empty. The boss of the gangsters, later that morning, sent word to Sokaku that he would like to discuss a truce.

About the Author:

Al Case has studied martial arts for more than over forty years. You can see him practicing disarmss at Monster Martial Arts. You are welcome to reprint this article - but get your own unique content version here.

Some Benefits of Exercising on a Treadmill

By Chris Campbell

Do you feel guilty because the stair climber scares you or because you'd rather gnaw off your own arms than spend another minute on a rowing machine? Do your friends tease you because you just take your time and walk on a treadmill?

A treadmill, as most people know, is a device that allows you to walk, jog, or run in place. Many people read a book while they walk, or place their treadmill in front of the television set and catch up on the news or their favorite soaps. Exercise on a treadmill almost feels like a guilty pleasure. How could something so easy actually be good for you?

Space-saving - this is the first and most obvious advantage that is offered by the folding treadmill, as since it can be folded into a smaller version, it is able to be stored in the closet, under the bed, or even behind the door for instance, and hence you will be able to conserve space in your home, as well as have the piece of machine out of sight while you are not using it.

Easy to clean - this machine can be cleaned quickly and easily because it simple has to be taken to bathroom and sprayed down, and this is all that is necessary in the cleaning process of such a machine.

Exercise on a treadmill is often more convenient and more safe than taking a stroll outside, as well. You can walk on the treadmill in any type of weather, and you don't have to worry about walking at night or in a bad neighborhood.

In regards to the advantages of the non-folding treadmill, this includes: High stability - the folding treadmill tends to wobble and with time, and so serious running on this machine would not be possible.

Motorized - the non- folding treadmill can be motorized in order to be able to provide you more comfort than any folding treadmill. Motorization also has many advantages over the manual one, such as it is able to check your blood pressure, pulse, and even tell you grand specifics while you are exercising.

Best for professional use - no professional runner would ever consider training on any other type of treadmill. This is because the non-foldable treadmill can offer the professional runner a good number of challenging situations with which he or she will feel comfortable and yet challenged by.

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Be sure to visit the cheap used treadmills website for more cheap treadmills for sale.

Dead Projects Walking

By Rob Llewellyn

We have all seen statistics banded areound that are associated with the high rate of project failure. According to a study by Gartner, nearly 40% percent of IT projects fail or are abandoned before completion. There are many larger figures flying around on the same subject. But regardless of the figure - it is very high and a dark cloud over the project management industry.

Many project managers are afraid of being labelled as quitters or failures. It certainly takes more courage for a Project Manager to admit that a project is a failure than to accept it (with no choice) when they finally walk over the edge of the cliff.

To be honest, it is my view that continuing with a hopeless project is like flogging a dead horse and wasting large sums of money in the process. It is not good business sense.

According to a four-year survey of 672 senior IT and business managers conducted by the Center for Project Management in the USA, approximately only 20 percent of Project Managers have a process for identifying and cancelling failed projects. Do you have one?

It is natural for most project managers and project teams to have a task-oriented focus. Most project methodologies will anticipate project difficulties and suggest monitoring and controlling processes for the management of change, issues and problems.

But the resulting mindset for the project effort can often be so focused on getting the project back on track that it pays no attention to the fact that the project may very well be a dead horse that is still being flogged. It is wise to be open to the possibility that the project is a like a horse that will never run again. So stop flogging it!

It certainly takes courage to prematurely close a project because often you are likely to upset someone higher up the chain of command than yourself. Stopping a project is not for the faint of heart who are afraid to upset the boss, which is why you will often see an independent consultant who is external to company politics often step up to the mark and do the necessary.

There are many ailing projects that were the brainchild of a C-level executive still laying in dark corners of companies. They have often become useless, expensive and a drain on resources. No one has the courage to get the executive in question to face up to the fact that their project is not likely to succeed after all.

About the Author:

Rob Llewellyn is a programme management consultant who has helped governments and leading organisations in Europe, the Middle East and Australia. Visit his blog to read more articles like the one above at www.llewellyn-group.com

Review for the Sanyo DR7700 Massage Chair

By James Knolan

Our goal is to present a potential massage chair buyer with a comprehensive and unbiased review of a given massage chair. We have developed a 5 category system to evaluate a massage chair. We give equal weight to each category and give 0 to 20 points rating and then add them up to present an overall score. Our categories include Warranty & Customer Service, Comfort/Ergonomics, Ease of Use, Features and Massage Therapy. This systematic approach forces us to a disciplined method of evaluating a massage chair to help guide anyone looking at massage chairs. The Sanyo HEC-DR7700K shiatsu massage chair price is in the luxury range of $4,000 to $5,000.

Warranty & Customer Service: It is important that the manufacturer stand behind its product. A good gage of the company's confidence is its warranty coverage and duration. Sanyo gives a 1 year labor, 1 year parts and 1 year in-home service. It does cover the roller mechanism for 3 years. Sanyo is well below other manufacturers in this category with its parts and labor. Sanyo recently instituted in-home service with the 1 year in-home whereas most are 90 days. Customer service is good. Sanyo has a national hot line with 24/7 service. Turnaround time on service is good. Our Rating in this category is 14.

Comfort & Ergonomics: A massage chair needs to be comfortable and fit the body. Otherwise, you will only use the chair for massage. The chair back of the DR7700K is comfortable and the upholstery is well padded. The head pillow is soft and the thickness is appropriate. The seat is ok and the armrests have sufficient padding. The footrest is comfortable, but cannot be adjusted. If you are 5' 10" or more, then your knees must be bent when the footrest is raised. This is a bit restrictive for a large portion of the population. Our rating in this category is 15.

East of Use: Ease of use is defined as how intuitive the controls and how complicated are they to use without reading the instructions. Sanyo is known for its stereos and other electronics with advanced features. The remote control of the HEC-DR7700K is fairly simple and intuitive to use. Select from 4 automatic programs and sit back and relax. One button takes you to the Zero Gravity position. The Sanyo remote contains manual massage controls in a side panel. The sub-remote, unfortunately is tethered by a cable to the chair. Overall Rating for the Sanyo HEC-SR7700K for ease of use is 19.

Key Features: The most prominent features of the Sanyo HEC-DR7700K are the GK Rollers and the Zero Gravity Position. Sanyo designed jointed massage heads into the GK Rollers that have the capability to grip the shoulders. This GK Roller system is the first attempt by a massage chair manufacturer to bring in a third dimension to massage. The gripping action is soothing in the shoulders and neck areas. Zero Gravity is achieved by raising the knees above the heart with the chair back 170 degrees. The Sanyo HEC-DR7700K is an 18 in Key Features.

Massage Therapy: The DR7700K has 4 full body automatic courses, 5 massage speed settings and in a total combination of 83 manual massage courses. The manual massage techniques include the following: Shiatsu, Kneading, Tapping, and Kneading & Tapping. Additionally, because of the GK roller system, Sanyo offers Grip, which is a squeezing sensation. Sanyo incorporates various stretches. The DR7700K massage chair uses 24 airbags with projections that perform a shiatsu massage on the calves and an undulating sole shiatsu massage. There are a wide range of massage capabilities and the GK rollers add a critical third dimension. Our rating in this category is 19.

We just reviewed 5 categories ranging from warranty to features to ergonomics. How does the Sanyo HEC-DR7700K Based on the 5 categories the total score for the Sanyo HEC-DR7700K is a 85/100. The Sanyo HEC-DR7700K provides fairly thorough full body massage therapy. The technology is innovative and reliable. Sanyo has one of the weaker warranties providing less protection for the customer. The Sanyo HEC-DR7700K integrates some interesting features to locate trouble areas and provides good relief to the shoulders and neck. The Sanyo has most of the elements of a great massage chair, but seems to be lacking from its roots. The sensory experience missing seems to be music and with Sanyo's background in stereos just seems odd. This is a luxury class massage chair and has solid technology, but just seems a bit incomplete. The Sanyo HEC-DR7700K is just average for the luxury class of shiatsu massage chairs.

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Learn everything about the Sanyo DR7700K Massage Chair. We have product reviews, articles and everything for your perusal. Find out how Sanyo is one of the best massage chair brands at http://www.massagechairwarehouse.com/ for all your needs.

The Greatest Samurai in Old Japan (death in the bath house)

By Al Case

Sokaku Takeda, fifty-two years of age, settled back into the steaming, hot water. Sighing...he considered his position. He had been called into this wilderness town two weeks previous, but so far nothing had happened.

Where were all the vicious gangsters who ran the gambling and the smuggling? He had seen much evidence of their despicable slave labor operations, but of gangster he had seen nothing but a pair of low lifes who had spied on him from a respectful distance. Where were all these criminals that destroyed entire police stations and scared the police so much that they had called to him for help?

Where were these--CRASH! The door to the bath house banged open and six thugs barged into the room. They held their swords in the ready position and advanced around the edge of the large bath.

At the sight of these thugs Sokaku scrambled from the water. The only thing near him was a towel, and he snatched it up and looked at it. A towel, well, in his hands it would be more than a towel, it would be deadly weapon!

"You'll learn some manners here," snarled one of the gangsters, lifting his sword high. All the gangsters edged forward then, snarling insults and dire predictions of what they were about to do to him. If they could surround him effectively then they could rush him and kill him.

Interestingly, the old man didn't even have his sword, but his reputation was so fierce that none of them were willing to take a chance. After all, he had killed dozens of able opponents, high skilled samurai, and they were well aware that they were not samurai. It would be far better to surround and rush him.

"Dogs teaching people manners, eh?" Twisting the towel to make it more effective, Sokaku glared at the gangsters. Moving forward, he dropped the tip of the towel into the pool.

Venting a terrible scream, one of the criminals dashed forward.. Sokaku moved to the side easily, his feet gripping the tiles firmly, and he flicked the towel like lightening. Whack--and the thug screamed in agony, grabbed his ribs, and fell to the floor in agony.

Another thug dashed forward, and another one. Crack! Crack!

Like a wraith Sokaku sidestepped, and he flicked his towel like lightening. Whack! Crack!

Moaning and holding their cracked ribs, five of the gangsters lay on the floor. The sixth gangster, seeing his fallen comrades, realizing that he was next, let loose his sword and ran out of the bath house. The only one left standing in the bath house now, Sokaku Takeda put the towel aside and and began to dress.

About the Author:

Al Case has practiced the martial arts for 40 years. You can see him disarming weapons at http://www.monstermartialarts.com/index.html. Don't reprint this exact article. Instead, reprint a free unique content version of this same article.

Kazushi Sakuraba's Impact On Japanese MMA And Fight Sports

By David Glisan

A pro fighter faces the most difficult decision of his life when contemplating the prospect of retirement. Unfortunately, too many hang on well past the time when they can compete at the highest level only serving to diminish their legacy and damage their health. MMA is no different than boxing in this respect, and following his brutal knockout loss to Melvin Manhoef at DREAM 4 Japan's legendary Kazushi Sakuraba appears to fit the description of a fighter who needs to call it quits but is unwilling to do so.

While MMA has exploded in popularity in the United States, there's not one individual fighter who can be credited with the boom. In Japan, however, Sakuraba is widely acknowledged to have brought the sport to the mainstream of that country's popular culture. His legendary feud against the Gracie family, highlighted by his epic 90 minute war with Royce Grace at PRIDE's 2000 GP event, elevated him well past superstar status into the realm of national hero.

Sakuraba's record definitely justifies the high regard in which he's held, but the reality is that he's done nothing to build on his legacy for a number of years. His last really impressive win was over former UFC light heavyweight champ Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson, but he hasn't even defeated a credible opponent of any sort since his 2003 win over Kevin Randleman.

Boxing experts often evaluate fighters as being young or old for their age. A fighter whose career has been mostly comprised of knockouts or other easy victories against uninspiring opposition would be described as young for his age. Conversely, a competitor that has been through many grueling fights and wars against top notch rivals is often judged to be old for his age. Perhaps the best recent example of a boxer that was old for his age is Erik El Terrible Morales who retired late last year at the age of 30, having fought a series of epic battles with fellow Mexican Marco Antonio Barrera that left him physically and emotionally drained. As a result, boxing commentators often suggest that Morales was an old 30. Evaluated by a similar rubric, theres no doubt that Sakuraba is an old 38. The 90 minute confrontation with Royce Gracie alone likely took a significant physical and emotional toll, and after that Sakuraba continued to fight the best level of opposition in the world.

Furthermore hed frequently find himself across the ring from much larger superstars, his popularity and fearlessness producing matchups that could never get sanctioned in the US but are commonplace in the wild wild west environment of Japanese fighting. The quality of opposition he faced is staggering"Royce Gracie and several other members of the legendary family, Wanderlei Silva, Mirko Cro Cop, Vitor Belfort, and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira stand out as the most impressive names on his record. Unfortunately and not surprisingly, he had difficulty when stepping up in class against heavier fighters and most of these matchups resulted in losses by brutal knockout or other type of stoppage.

Sakuraba, unfortunately, has shown little indication that he'll retire any time soon. Hopefully his prolonged career won't undermine his legacy of greatness, or more problematically damage his long term mental or physical well being.

About the Author:

David Glisan is a freelance writer covering MMA and other fight sports. He contributes to many MMA news websites and provides UFC news for mainstream sports broadcasts and websites. He's also a published expert on boxing, pro wrestling and judo.

The Greatest Samurai in Old Japan (the early years)

By Al Case

Samurai were the lords of life and death in old Japan. If you were a peasant, you could be killed for looking at a samurai the wrong way. If a samurai killed another Samurai all he had to do was make a statement at the local government headquarters and he was scott free.

Samurai were trained in a variety of arts right from the cradle. They dedicated their lives to the service of their Lord, and they were expected to make there lives worth something. Samurai are considered by many to be the greatest warriors this planet has ever seen.

Sokaku Takeda may have been the greatest Samurai of them all. He has been compared to Myamoto Musashi, labeled a Tengu (demon), and he mastered many skills and weapons including sword, staff, half-bow, short-staff, and throwing darts. He also received a license in Hozoin-ryu (the spear arts), and he taught thirty thousand students, which students included the founders of Aikido and Hapkido.

The boy studied the approaching armies from his vantage point high in a tree. The Imperial Forces with their colorful banners moved in precise manuevers across the valley floor. The infantry dared the world in thunderous voice, and the proud cavalry on their high stepping chargers darted about, flinging challenges to the rebels.

The boy was only ten, and he was small for his age, but he studied the precision movements of the large numbers of men with an intelligent eye. The troops moved well, and they looked so beautiful, but his father referred to them as well trained dogs. Suddenly, beneath Sokaku Takeda the rebels emerged from the forest.

These were taciturn, worn warriors, not overly proud peacocks, and among them Sokaku could see his fatherr and others of his family. These were the Aizu, his clan, and a fierce surge of pride ran through his body. Now we shall find out, he thought, and he flexed his fingers in anticipation--and quickly loosed them.

He had been slow in learning a technique the night previous, and his grandfather had watched as his father held his hand over the fire. Holding back tears, he had watched as his flesh singed. The punishment done, he had not held his hand, but just let it hang, a reminder to work ever harder, to master the techniques quickly quickly and avoid such punishment.

His flesh had been burned before, and it would, no doubt, be burned again, but it was more important to concentrate on the coming battle. Watch and learn, were the advice of his father the previous evening--learn what manner of technique gets a man killed, and what manner of technique lets a man live. Sokaku Takeda, knowing his father had spoken truly, made himself comfortable in the high tree, and prepared to learn the lessons that would guide his life.

About the Author:

Al Case has been practicing the martial arts for more than 40 years. Download his free book at Monster Martial Arts. Click here to get your own unique version of this article with free reprint rights.

Mixed Martial Arts

By Bobbie McKee

There are numerous kinds of martial arts today and you're probably wondering what mixed martial arts is all about. Well, just as the name suggests, it is a combination of various fighting techniques, a mixture of martial arts' non-traditions and traditions. Oftentimes, MMA competitions are held throughout the country. According to its rules, players can use grappling and striking techniques whether the players are standing or fighting on the ground. Players with different martial arts backgrounds are free to compete with each other. It is sometimes known as hybrid martial arts.

It was only in 1993 when the first MMA competition was held. Minimal rules are followed to ensure the safety of players. There are already additional rules in today's modern competitions. The term was coined by Jeff Blatnick who was a gold Olympic medalist and ex- wrestler. The aim of the various competitions is to determine the best player who can fight in unarmed combat. Just like professional wrestling and boxing, mixed martial arts is also popular especially with 'pay per view'.

To understand mixed martial arts better, you should know about its history.

An ancient hand to hand combat which resembles MMA is the Pankration. Aside from that, the rules of the MMA were similar to the ones used for Egyptian freefighting and the Shardana. These two combat sports were also based on the Pankration. The games were introduced in 648 BC in the Olympic Games. Pankrations practiced in Greece were less violent as compared to the Roman pancratium and Etruscan. Some experts even say that in the Roman Colisuem, this was the favorite pastimes of the people. In the middle ages, there were already many statues that honor Rome's pancratiasts.

Events were also held during the 1800s and participants used different wrestling styles and other fighting styles. These events were organized all throughout Europe. In the United States, a wrestler and a boxer met face to face way back in 1887. They were John Sullivan and William Muldoon. In just 2 minutes, Muldoon defeated Sullivan. In 1890, Bob Fitzsimmons was defeated by Ernest Roeber by applying an arm-lock technique.

In the 19th century, Giovanni Raicevich (Italian) was able to defeat Akitaro Ono (Japanese). And in 1935, Ray Steele won in a matter of 35 seconds and defeated Kingfish Levinsky. In London, Bartitsu was founded in 1899 and this was the very first MMA known in history. It was a combination of European and Asian fighting styles. Throughout European countries, Jujitsu and Boxing were quite popular forms of entertainment.

In Japan, contests were also held and they were called 'merikan'. This was the slang word for American fighting.

In summary, mixed martial arts can be traced all throughout Japan, Pacific Rim, and Europe. Tournaments are widely organized all over the world. In every competition, judges give the final decision. The time is also recorded. The referee can also stop the game if he thinks that the other player can no longer defend himself. A player will also lose by knockout or if the cornerman throws the towel into the ring.

That's a simple overview of the history of Mixed Martial Arts. At least now you have an idea where MMA started. Many people are now into this combat sport, so why don't you try it yourself? Many athletes and players see many challenges in the MMA and they are wiling to try it out. Watch a game or two to learn more about it.

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Useful Website content needs to be smokin' hot and one-of-a-kind to help make your business grow. Get top-quality, fresh PLR articles and e-books at http://www.yescontentisking.com.

Training for a Mixed Martial Arts Match

By Bobbie McKee

Since its mixed martial arts, it includes several skill sets. A fighter can be the jack of all trades but still, a master of only one or two skills. One participant can be more adept in judo kicks while the other may be a master in karate jabs. On the other hand, wrestlers bring out another kind of environment in the arena. A mixed martial artist who achieved success in defeating his opponents is the one who is well-trained in all areas of the competition. Through learning the different skills and being familiar with it, one can easily counter or attack with ease whatever the technique may be.

Training is one of the most important tools one can carry when entering the ring. The fighter must posses discipline and a positive outlook than can give him the extra strength he needs when the competition is already at its exhausting part. Below are some tips on how to effectively perform a particular technique without getting hurt.

Tip 1 - Identify strengths and weaknesses

As a professional fighter, you must know the areas where you are lacking and needs more improvement. Spend some time to think about your strengths and further improve it whereas regarding your weaknesses, figure it out and try to work on it. Before knowing the different varieties of skills you must first be able to identify certain weak points. If you have problems with your endurance, gradually condition your heart and body to provide you with better endurance. If you are not aware of your weaknesses, ask someone who has seen you fight or train; a trainer perhaps.

Tip 2 - Focus on strength exercises

This will make your muscles and body endure a majority of the attacks usually aimed at vulnerable parts like the abdomen. Exerting on strength exercises doesn't necessarily mean you have to build a bulk. Gaining too much muscle will put you into a higher match category or level which may lead to a more difficult bout. It will get worse if you are not conditioned properly due to lesser chances of gaining dominance over your opponents. In terms of weight lifting, you could go for fast repetitions using lighter weights compared to using heavier ones which will cause you to build up.

Tip 3 - Anaerobic activities do you good

Practicing anaerobic activities will contribute much in establishing your stamina. No matter how skillful a player is if his stamina dries out, he won't last another level. There are certain matches wherein the judges' opinions are not appreciated. With cases like this, it is a do or die match. The longer a participant plays in a game, the better chances he will win. Through the usage of machines or performing exercises like running or jogging, it helps increases a person's endurance.

Tip 4 - ROM exercise is a must

Range-of-motion (ROM) exercises should be included in your daily routine workout to be able to attain more flexibility and let you avoid self-inflicting injuries. If in sessions you have overused your feet in kicking, set some cycling hours for your legs to go on simultaneously.

Tip 5 - Maintain safety

There are certain exercises that test an athlete's capability to the limits. As much as possible, avoid such exercises for it may do you more harm than good. If you're hobby is to climb mountains or rush through waves on your surfboard, avoid it most especially if an anticipated mixed martial arts event is coming and you are one of its fighters.

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Your Website content needs to be new and individual to help make your business grow the way you want. You can download the finest, up-to-date PLR articles and e-books at http://www.yescontentisking.com.

Understanding Mixed Martial Arts

By Bobbie McKee

Mixed martial arts took the world in full blast. Through combining the different disciplines of kick boxing, wrestling and boxing, it is then considered by the majority as the main sport this season. The newest version of MMA came out in the 1900s. Tracing back its history way back when the Greeks maintained their Pankration, their ancient wrestling, it journeyed through the doors of the modern times. Mixed martial arts is easy to understand.

For someone who just came into an MMA arena, being clueless is just a phase. The curiosity disappears the moment you enter the environment of the competition. Below are some ways or steps to be able to fully understand the formalities of the game.

First, you have to be observant of the things around you. Notice what's happening. At the height of introduction and rule announcements, listen carefully to what the announcer says prior to the fight. There may be some rule similarities if compared with boxing like the standing eight count. Even so, weight classes are fewer and rounds are longer. There are certain matches wherein the judges can't decide on who the winner is. When this happens, the fight will continue until someone gets knocked over, submits, or chocked out.

The moment the match begins, watch. Indulge in the match without getting lost in the end. Like other sport fights, the combatants would fall under two broad categories: the brawlers and boxers. The brawlers are those who are always in a hurry to end a fight. They are the one who look forward in ending the match as quickly as possible. On the other hand, the boxers are the fighters who are willing to go further through the fight with the goal of wearing down their opponents and winning the judges decision.

However, the fighters also fall under two broad categories: the strikers and the grapplers. The strikers are those who are concentrating mostly on kicks and punches while grapplers are those specializing in wrestling tactics.

During the game, try to judge how every participant executes a certain strategy or technique to bring the opponent down. Assess their strengths, weaknesses and even their defenses. A participant can either be a grappler or a brawler or a combination of both. A match ends when a fighter submits, get knocked out, or basing on the judge's decision. Grapplers can use chokes or submission holds to attain a quick victory or he can also vanquish his opponent's strength through a series of locks and holds, aiming to neutralize and run his opponent down.

Analyze every fighter through every match. Notice if the fight takes place in an open ring or if it's on the ground. Are the fighters' strategies helping them succeed or was it quickly countered by the opponent?

Mixed martial arts are full of stunts that can make your heart beat fast. There are only few MMA fights that reach the time allotted. Due to the new rules proposed to less wrapping of the hands and lighter use of gloves, strikers can no longer punch as hard as they want without the risk of inflicting injury to their own wrist and hand. Watch out for surprises. Knockouts and big blows done either by the knee, fist or foot are common.

A fighter's fortune can be rotated in a matter of seconds; this will entirely depend on how the fighters carry themselves throughout the fight.

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If you're examining how to make money online, you require the right resources. Visit http://www.yescontentisking.com and get PLR content and products to sell.

The Greatest Samurai in Old Japan (understanding death)

By Al Case

Ten year old Sokaku Takeda crawled into the branches of a tall tree and prepared himself to watch and learn. Mid-morning the Imperial troops sallied forth, and were met with wave upon wave of arrows. The men of the Aizu clan were remarkable bowmen, and the Imperials had good armor, still, the downslope of the vale was covered with screaming men by the time the Imperials reached the bottom and began their charge.

Shooting arrows, the Aizu retreated back into the trees. The cavalry pulled to the sides and let the infantry through, and now the battle became vicious and hand to hand. Columns of troops were separated by the trees, and the Aizu warriors, who had picked a superior strategy, went to work with spear and sword.

Screams, shrieks, orders shouted into the bloody wind. More Imperials arrived, and the Aizu were driven back. Underneath Sokaku's tree several Aizu made a stand.

Arrows thunked into tree trunks and armor, and were slashed out of the air by whistling swords. The swords, normally arcs of brilliantly polished metal, were now thick with blood, slick with the blood of dead men. With no trace of fear, the Sokaku observed as an Imperial Samurai arrived at the small conflict taking place directly beneath him.

The samurai deflected and moved past a spear thrust, and then his own sword was deflected, and a dagger placed just so between the joint of arm and chest. It slipped through the armor and the warrior gave a groan and sank to his knees. For a moment, the battle raged, then the small group of Aizu moved back, and the lone Samurai was left, alone, on his knees, to bleed out his final few moments of life.

The muted roar of the battle wafting through the trees, the ferocious action moved elsewhere, the Samurai looked up. Whether to glimpse a final glimpse of sky, or to see the heavens open to receive him, the result was the same--he went eyeball to eyeball with a ten year old boy. Avidly, Sokaku had studied the techniques used in the battle, and now he was beyond technique, he was in the depths of a departing spirit.

Long minutes passed as the two stared at one another, they shared an eternal moment with widening eyes, then the Samurai's pupils seemed to lose interest, and he gave a final murmur of breath and died. He died in on his knees, proud, not wishing to lay down even in death. Sokaku was amazed at the easy passing of the warrior's spirit.

And though the Samurai was an Imperial--had been an Imperial--he was still a Samurai, and the boy felt pride, for he was a Samurai, too. Then he felt a double dose of pride, for not only was he Samurai, like the brave warrior who knelt beneath him, but he was Aizu, the fiercest of the Samurai. And through the day the battle swelled and receded like storm tossed waters, and again and again warriors fought and the boy held his perch and watched and learned.

About the Author:

Al Case has been researching the martial arts for 40 + years. Download his free ebook at Monster Martial Arts. Don't reprint this exact article. Instead, reprint a free unique content version of this same article.

The Hell Bag!

By Al Case

Go on, give it a kick! I was surrounded by high ranking black belts in the garage of my instructor to be. Hanging from the ceiling was a grim and silent bag.[l:4:J]

It was only a bag, should be simple, Ill impress the heck out of these guys. Ill show them what my school is made of? I mean, its only a bag, right?

I drew in breath and set my stance. I eyed the canvas thing, and studied my opponent. It looked to be about seventy pounds, not too tough, and I didnt notice that the ceiling had been re-enforced to support the bag.

Giving a mighty Kiai I launched my side kick. This was my strongest kick, and that bag should hit the ceiling like a duck launched by a catapult! My foot struck the side of that grey bag, and not much happened.

Well, something happened. The bag moved an inch and I bounced off, and a tremendous shock shivered my nervous system all the way up my leg and into my spine. And all the high ranking black belts rubbed their faces in a way that would conceal their grins.

Trying to regain my composure, I stifled my shock and stepped towards the bag. I felt the tough impenetrability of the thing and I asked, What the heck do did you pack this with? The fellow who would, one day, become my instructor, just grinned a slanted grin.

My first bag was a two dollar duffel bag filled with free sawdust. I spent hours packing that thing, and I kicked it until my legs were short. I thought I knew what a bag was about.

What Bob, the fellow who became my instructor had done with his bags, however, was sheer genius. His first bags were like mine, filled with sawdust and pounded and packed until it was solid and meaty to the foot. Then he started adding a cup of sawdust every week, and the thing became ungodly tough, a real foot breaker.

Think thats tough? Nope. His next invention was the real deal, and where he showed his true genius.

He took newspapers and cut circles out of them and put them in the bag. The Daily Rag, and all the news thats fit to...hit. And thats the tale behind the toughest bag to ever kick my fanny.

About the Author:

Al Case has 40 years experience in the martial arts. You can get his free ebook at Monster Martial Arts. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

Advantages of Exercising at Home With A Treadmill

By Chris Campbell

Health concern is incredibly important today, and everyone is aware of the advantages that exercise brings to our lives and is thus more than ready to take their health seriously. There are many pieces of exercise equipment available these days, which makes it incredibly easier for absolutely anyone to incorporate physical activity into their daily life.

Price - First of all the manual treadmill is economical. Anyone can afford it - which is great - because this will be one of the most important investments that you will make, especially in regards to exercise equipment as a whole.

Stay at home moms, for instance, usually find that they do not have even close to the amount of time that they would like free for them to spend doing exercise, and even if that time was there they would be far too exhausted to be able to do much about it anyway.

Being a stay at home mom is a full-time job in itself, and so trying to fit in proper physical exercise is often simply another frustrating task that never seems to work to any avail.

The fact is that for the most part, all women have or plan to deliver their duties as mothers and wives while at the same time want to stay fit and presentable. This is the type of woman that would love the freedom that this machine has to offer. You can have all the exercise you want without leaving the house, and without having to neglect any of your present household duties.

When the machine is new, you may find it to be a bit hard to exercise, as it will take some time to be able to loosen it up sufficiently enough that it will be able to roll smoothly when you walk on it. Until that time however, you may notice that your muscles will get sorer quicker.

You cannot automate the exact speed or inclination - since the speed/ inclination of the manual treadmill depends on how fast you walk, adjustment to get the right combination can be quite cumbersome.

As with anything, there are both advantages and disadvantages, and so you should take the proper time and consideration to think about all, in order to be assured that you are making the right final decision.

Overall, those who have purchased and who use manual treadmills have generally only positive things to say about them.

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Be sure to visit the used treadmills website for more cheap treadmills for sale.

Mixed Martial Arts Info

By Bobbie McKee

Adults and young kids alike are already familiar with mixed martial arts. People have different reasons for learning martial arts which usually include physical fitness, weight loss, and self protection. Jujitsu, karate, and judo are well-liked forms of martial arts but MMAs are more popular. The latter makes use of various techniques to overpower the opponent. This unarmed combat became famous through PRIDE and Ultimate Fighting Championships.

Modern boxing and mixed martial arts originated from Jujitsu, Karate, and Judo. It began only as experiments. There are times when the techniques learned in class are difficult to apply in real life. By applying different combat techniques in a particular situation, an individual can easily identify the best fighting techniques to use. Modern competitions still vary in terms of rules and regulations; depending on the place where the competitions are held. There is also no central organization that sets MMA rules.

Among the common techniques utilized in MMA competitions are grappling and striking. You can also strike your opponent by using techniques like kneeing, kicking, punching, holds, and sweeping. Different organizers of the game matches have their own set of rules. A certain move may be legal to one organization but it might be considered illegal to another like the spinal locks and head butting. However, in most cases, spinal locks and eye gouging are considered illegal.

If you want to participate in the matches, you should first undergo extreme training. You should be dedicated, patient, and hard working. With continuous training, you can perfect your moves and fighting skills. By doing so, it will a lot easier to overcome your opponents. Whether you're a big or small individual, you can defeat attackers no matter how small or big they are. During MMA training sessions, the instructor will teach various moves, techniques, and fighting styles.

You need to learn these things and make sure that you can apply them when the situation calls for it. Don't stick to just one technique because it will be ineffective in fighting other players. Most MMA players learn fighting techniques and styles from different teachers or coaches. If you want to succeed in mixed martial arts, you should be adaptive and flexible. Since mixed martial arts matches are highly competitive, you should be competent yourself.

Where can you learn mixed martial arts? MMA classes are widely available all over the world. It's easy to search for an MMA school these days, thanks to the internet. Try a local search and you can already locate the best classes in your area. You can also ask referrals from your friends, relatives, or colleagues. They may know a good MMA class in your area. You can inquire at their office, and then ask for the schedule and fees involved.

Make sure that your training sessions will not affect other aspects of your life like your studies or career. It's a good thing if you start early while you're body is more flexible. Encourage young ones to learn various MMA techniques.

Mixed martial arts are definitely getting more popular every year. Be part of the competitions by cheering for your love ones, friends, or by being a player yourself. MMA is an exciting combat sport and another advantage of learning the various fighting techniques is that you can also use it for self defense.

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If you're seeking ways to make money online, you need the right support. Visit http://www.yescontentisking.com and get tons of PLR content and products to sell.

Matrix Karate is Fastest Martial Art!

By Al Case

Wham to bam to slam! You have just been tossed to the ground! The beating you received, before striking the ground, was...sizable!

You research the martial arts after you heal up. People want you to sign long contracts though, and they are so expensive, and it takes so long to earn a black belt! Well, itll take a long time unless you know about Matrix Karate.[l:3:J]

Matrixing is a new science that deals with the analysis and handling of force and flow. Using Matrix Karate one can learn the art of Karate within a few months. Were talking months here, not years or dcades!

A couple of analogies must be made if you are to understand how Matrixing works. The first analogy is that of a computer to the mind. Along with that, you have to understand an insidious little thing called fragmentation.

To know what fragmentation is you need to understand that the mind is like a library. Books on the shelves are like data in your mind. To solve a problem you need to be able to find a book somewhere in the shelves of your mind.

Looking for a book, you take a trip to the card index to find where in the library the book you want is. Then you take a trip down the rows of shelves to find that book. Finally, you bring the book out of the library and use it.

When there are spaces on the shelves, however, and when the books have been put in the wrong places, the result is this thing called fragmentation. The system of storing information, you see, has been made unworkable. Theres all the information in the world there, but youre not going to find it.

The martial arts, to be honest, are taught in haphazard fashion. Arts are put together conglomerations of tricks from different countries, different cultures, tainted by vested interest, and so on. Simply, everybody who has ever taught the martial arts has spun them, and the result is that they are a hopeless mangle.

Learning Matrixing, however, gets rid of the spaces and puts all the books into the correct order. Techniques become incredibly easy to use, and they become extremely intuitive. Once you have learned Matrix Karate, the next street criminal that comes at you is going to find himself on the wrong end of a very strong and fast and intuitive fist!

About the Author:

Al Case has 40 years experience in the martial arts. You can learn about Matrix Karate at Monster Martial Arts.. This and other unique content '' articles are available with free reprint rights.

Mixed Martial Arts

By Bobbie McKee

There are numerous kinds of martial arts today and you're probably wondering what mixed martial arts is all about. Well, just as the name suggests, it is a combination of various fighting techniques, a mixture of martial arts' non-traditions and traditions. Oftentimes, MMA competitions are held throughout the country. According to its rules, players can use grappling and striking techniques whether the players are standing or fighting on the ground. Players with different martial arts backgrounds are free to compete with each other. It is sometimes known as hybrid martial arts.

It was only in 1993 when the first MMA competition was held. Minimal rules are followed to ensure the safety of players. There are already additional rules in today's modern competitions. The term was coined by Jeff Blatnick who was a gold Olympic medalist and ex- wrestler. The aim of the various competitions is to determine the best player who can fight in unarmed combat. Just like professional wrestling and boxing, mixed martial arts is also popular especially with 'pay per view'.

To understand mixed martial arts better, you should know about its history.

An ancient hand to hand combat which resembles MMA is the Pankration. Aside from that, the rules of the MMA were similar to the ones used for Egyptian freefighting and the Shardana. These two combat sports were also based on the Pankration. The games were introduced in 648 BC in the Olympic Games. Pankrations practiced in Greece were less violent as compared to the Roman pancratium and Etruscan. Some experts even say that in the Roman Colisuem, this was the favorite pastimes of the people. In the middle ages, there were already many statues that honor Rome's pancratiasts.

Events were also held during the 1800s and participants used different wrestling styles and other fighting styles. These events were organized all throughout Europe. In the United States, a wrestler and a boxer met face to face way back in 1887. They were John Sullivan and William Muldoon. In just 2 minutes, Muldoon defeated Sullivan. In 1890, Bob Fitzsimmons was defeated by Ernest Roeber by applying an arm-lock technique.

In the 19th century, Giovanni Raicevich (Italian) was able to defeat Akitaro Ono (Japanese). And in 1935, Ray Steele won in a matter of 35 seconds and defeated Kingfish Levinsky. In London, Bartitsu was founded in 1899 and this was the very first MMA known in history. It was a combination of European and Asian fighting styles. Throughout European countries, Jujitsu and Boxing were quite popular forms of entertainment.

In Japan, contests were also held and they were called 'merikan'. This was the slang word for American fighting.

In summary, mixed martial arts can be traced all throughout Japan, Pacific Rim, and Europe. Tournaments are widely organized all over the world. In every competition, judges give the final decision. The time is also recorded. The referee can also stop the game if he thinks that the other player can no longer defend himself. A player will also lose by knockout or if the cornerman throws the towel into the ring.

That's a simple overview of the history of Mixed Martial Arts. At least now you have an idea where MMA started. Many people are now into this combat sport, so why don't you try it yourself? Many athletes and players see many challenges in the MMA and they are wiling to try it out. Watch a game or two to learn more about it.

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All about Mixed Martial Arts

By Bobbie McKee

Mixed martial arts is more popularly known as MMA. You can easily defeat your opponents by using a combination of various combat techniques. Recently, MMA has become extremely popular in the different countries of the world. One of the best known competitions is the ultimate fighting championships.

Different martial arts techniques are utilized by various MMA players. The main aim of these MMA competitions is to identify the best combat techniques that can be used in everyday life. Today's competitions are a bit different because stricter rules are being followed since the sport is already accepted all throughout the world. Still, there is still no established central organization to create standard rules for the game. The MMA rules vary depending on the place where the competitions are held.

In most mixed martial arts competitions or tournaments, grappling or striking techniques are used. It can include punches, knees, and kicks. Aside from that, players can also execute sweeps, throws, and holds. Fish hooking, biting, and eye gouging are usually considered illegal while elbows, spinal locks, and head butts are not always allowed in the game.

A winner can only be proclaimed when the judges give their decision. There are also times when the winner is proclaimed by knock out and submission. The corner man can also decide for the game's outcome. If he wishes to end the game, he may do so. The on-site match doctor can also decide to end the game when the player cannot fight properly anymore.

Mixed martial arts training can get really tough. You see, in order for a player to play in a match, he should undergo serious training. There are lots of fighting techniques to learn and you can't possibly learn them all overnight. The trainings involve ground combat, clinch, stand up, and many other fighting techniques. Aside from that, training instructors also teach kickboxing and boxing.

By learning these things, you can easily improve your footwork, kneeing, punching, and kicking. Clinching can be improved by leaning freestyle wrestling. Striking power is developed by learning Muay Thai. To improve your ground fighting positioning skills, you should learn Sambo and Brazilian Jujitsu. Combat abilities can be further enhanced through judo, catch wrestling, and shoot wrestling. So you see, there is a lot to learn if you want to become a good player in the mixed martial arts competitions.

It's not easy to become one of the best players because you need to learn many fighting styles and techniques. You should also learn how to alter these techniques from time to time. Don't just stick to several fighting techniques because your opponent might be able to read your moves. Do some modifications so that your opponent can't tell your next move. Succeeding in MMA competitions require hard work and dedication. It is truly demanding and you need to be competent. Competitiveness is a vital key if you want to win various competitions or tournaments.

Start learning various fighting styles, techniques, and combat sports. If you incorporate all the knowledge and skills you've learned, you have a better chance to win. Find good instructors and learn from them. You should be willing to invest time, effort, and money. It may take some time before you can learn many different fighting techniques but it's worth the wait.

By the time you step on the ring, you're ready to win.

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Useful Website content needs to be smokin' hot and one-of-a-kind to help make your business grow. Get top-quality, fresh PLR articles and e-books at http://www.yescontentisking.com.